Embark on an exciting and comprehensive journey into game development using a mix of block based programming, hardware, art, logic and LUA coding! Participants will dive into the world of game design, to create their own 2D video games from start to finish. Throughout the program, they will not only learn essential coding skills but also explore the entire game development pipeline. From character design to level design, participants will unleash their creativity and bring their unique game concepts to life. With special hardware at their disposal, they can port their games to real handheld gaming consoles to test and play their creations, gaining hands-on experience while honing their game design and coding abilities. Each season will focus on a different genre of gaming using different mixes of programs and coding languages. Let participants’ imaginations run wild as they immerse themselves in this thrilling realm of creativity and innovation!

Fall – Arcade & Hardware

• Learn to develop your own 8-bit micro games  using a mix of block based programming, LUA scripting, pixel art and level design. Use special hardware to port your game onto a dedicated gaming console & arcade to play test and code hardware specific interactions and controller support.

Winter – Branching Narratives & Web Dev

• Create a web based text adventure game with a branching narrative using real web development skills and programming languages such as HTML, CSS and Javascript. Create digital art to help convey your narrative and give life to your game with multiple routes and endings.

Spring – Platforming & Handheld

• Make and code 2D mini games for special handheld consoles and web applications. Use a mix of scripting and block based design to easily set up your games and design custom animations for all your game characters and world. Explore how to design games for handheld gaming consoles and target specific hardware light lights and gyroscopes.

In this Track you will develop these Skills: level design, game design, online safety, scripting, programming, digital art, LUA programming, publishing, HTML, CSS, Javascript, web development, pixel art, animation, console porting, hardware